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2006
OECD Economic Outlook, Volume 2006 Issue 2

Twice a year, the OECD Economic Outlook analyses the major trends and examines the economic policies required to foster high and sustainable growth in member countries. Developments in major non-OECD economies are also evaluated. The present issue covers the outlook to end-2008. Together with a wide range of cross-country statistics, the Outlook provides a unique tool to keep abreast of world economic developments.

In addition to the themes featured regularly, this issue contains a special chapter entitled Has the rise in debt made households more vulnerable?, which addresses the following questions:

What factors explain the observed rise in household debt in many OECD countries?

Ireland

The economy is growing rapidly propelled by strong household spending. Activity is projected to keep expanding robustly with a mild slowdown in growth from 5% in 2007 to 4½ per cent in 2008 as the boost that temporary factors are giving to demand fades. Inflation is projected to remain above the euro area average.